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Hosting an Outdoor Wedding Reception

Hosting an outdoor wedding reception can be less expensive than hosting a traditional wedding reception. The only downside to hosting an outdoor reception is the potential for poor weather conditions. The best thing about an outdoor reception is the flexibility to host it at a beautiful location, such as on a beach or on top of a mountain, or simply in your back yard.

Wedding Reception ?To Do? List

Following is a "to do" list of considerations for planning your outdoor wedding reception:

Secure the venue. Discuss your ideal venue, whether it be held at a park, beach, forest, winery, country club, on a mountain, on a boat, in your back yard, etc.

Rent a tent or gazebo. Confirm your rental date at least two weeks ahead of time.

Rent tables and chairs. Keep in mind that it is less expensive if you opt to set them up yourself.

Rent portable bathrooms. If there are no indoor bathrooms nearby, it is essential that you rent portable bathrooms.

Monitor the weather. Aforementioned, you should have a contingency plan in case the weather does not permit an outdoor party.

Purchase the miscellaneous items. Make a list of random, yet necessary items, such as extension cords, citronella candles, etc.

Hire a DJ or a band. Try to secure a DJ or band several months prior to your wedding reception since they book up fast.

Select the menu. Determine the menu and the style, such as buffet or barbecue. Also, determine if guests will help themselves to drinks or if you should hire a bartender. Be sure to offer non-alcoholic beverages as well, especially water in case the weather is hot.

Obtain permits. If you plan to serve alcoholic beverages, be sure to obtain the necessary permits. Also, inquire about any noise restrictions.

Ensure adequate parking. Make sure there is adequate parking close enough to your reception location so your guests can comfortably walk to and from their vehicles. If they cannot, consider a shuttle service.

Ask permission. If hosting a wedding reception in your yard, be sure to notify your neighbors so they won?t complain about the noise or parking situation. Better yet ? invite your neighbors so this isn?t an issue.

Tell your guests. Tell your guests that the reception will be held outdoors so they can dress appropriately. Include the information on your wedding invitations.

When planning for an outdoor wedding reception, it is best to consider a contingency plan to accommodate bad weather conditions. Being optimistic about the weather and location is healthy, but preparing for the worst is crucial.

Hilary Basile is a writer for MyGuidesUSA.com. At MyGuidesUSA.com (http://www.myguidesusa.com), you will find valuable tips and resources for handling life?s major events. Whether you?re planning a wedding, buying your first home, anxiously awaiting the birth of a child, contending with a divorce, searching for a new job, or planning for your retirement, you?ll find answers to your questions at MyGuidesUSA.com. Find wedding planning tips and resources at http://www.myguidesusa.com/weddings

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